McKenna Grace’s ‘The Hunger Games’ Gown Tribute Is by a Filipino Designer
McKenna Grace is stepping into the world of Panem as Maysilee Donner in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the upcoming prequel to the hit franchise. Ahead of its November release, Grace attended the The Hunger Games’ costume exhibition at the Musée Rodin in Paris, where she wore an outstanding tribute to the film.
Mckenna Grace wearing Monique Lhuillier at ‘The Hunger Games’ costume exhibition in Paris | Photo from @thehungergames on InstagramMckenna chose an archival gown by Filipino-American designer Monique Lhuillier. The dress is borrowed from the designer’s archives and transformed to reference the wedding gown worn by Jennifer Lawrence’s in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
Mckenna Grace and Joseph Zada in Paris | Photo from @thehungergames on InstagramThe choice connects Grace’s new role in the franchise with one of its most recognizable costume moments. In Catching Fire, Katniss wears the striking gown during her televised wedding appearance, a look designed by Indonesian designer Tex Saverio in collaboration with the film’s costume designer, Trish Summerville. The dress was built around a metal cage structure, laser-cut organza and chiffon ruffles.
Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen in ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’ | Photo from LionsgateThe gown famously becomes part of the film’s visual storytelling when Katniss spins onstage and the dress appears to burn away digitally, revealing a dark, feathered gown inspired by the Mockingjay. The transformation turns the costume from a bridal look into a symbol of rebellion, making the dress one of the franchise’s defining pieces of fashion.
Designer Monique Lhuillier has long been a pillar in Filipino fashion. Born in Cebu, Monique moved to the U.S. and launched her eponymous brand in 1996. Bringing one of her archival pieces into the Hunger Games universe gives the tribute a fashion connection that extends beyond the film itself.
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